The Billings Police Department and the County Attorney’s Office have completed a nine-month investigation into a Jan. 13 stabbing involving a teacher and student at Billings Senior High. No felony criminal charges will be filed.

Billings Public Schools reported the after-school incident to police immediately and cooperated with investigators and the County Attorney’s Office. Superintendent Erwin Garcia said the district will conduct its own investigation and request access to criminal justice information.

The student met graduation requirements and is no longer enrolled in the district. The teacher was placed on paid administrative leave and remains on leave.

In a statement, Billings Public Schools said officials were frustrated by the decision not to bring felony charges. The district also said the case had been painful for the community, particularly for teachers and students.

School Security Measures

Following the stabbing, Billings Senior High reduced the number of entrances accessible during the school day and gave police officers access cards intended to support rapid response.

The district also improved its radio communication systems and applied for grants to strengthen visual notification systems. Those measures were listed among steps taken after the incident.

The district’s separate investigation remains pending, while the teacher continues on paid administrative leave.